Should You Tip for Lip Filler Procedures?

A picture of Dr. Hardik Soni

Dr. Hardik Soni

Book Now

Everything you need to know about tipping etiquette for lip fillers.

When scheduling your appointment, tips likely weren’t top of mind between assessing providers, comparing fillers, and budgeting costs. Yet puzzlement around them often crops up among lip filler enthusiasts. 

Is adding 15-20% customary like at a spa? Or are tips for medical procedures frowned upon? 

While no consensus exists on ideal tipping practices, insight into prevailing wisdom can grant clarity amidst this complex choice. 

This is the year you steal the spotlight with showstopping lips. Contact Ethos Spa for lip fillers that captivate.

Is It Customary to Tip for Lip Fillers?

lip filler treatment

No, tipping for lip filler procedures is not considered standard protocol according to most medical ethics guidelines. Like many cosmetic procedures, the protocol for tipping for lip injections is not firmly defined – and arguably needs to be. 

Many emphasize that lip fillers are a medical procedure so tipping does not apply. Some medspas may have tipping prompts on their payment terminals, but these are usually intended for non-medical services like facials. 

The staff can turn off tipping for medical procedures if they want. Overall, opinions differ on whether gratuities are standard, optional, or even appropriate. 
Here’s an overview of tipping guidelines based on the type of provider:

Tipping Medical Professionals

  • Board-certified dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and nurse injectors typically do not expect or accept tips for lip fillers.
  • For licensed medical providers, accepting tips is discouraged and considered unethical by healthcare ethics associations.
  • Their fees reflect the expertise, training, and materials required to safely perform cosmetic injections.
  • However, patients sometimes offer a modest tip to show appreciation for exceptional care and service.

Tipping Medi-Spa Staff

  • Non-medical aestheticians, physician assistants, or clinical staff at med-spas may accept tips more readily.
  • Their role as cosmetic enhancer versus medical provider makes tipping more customary and expected.
  • These individuals may rely partly on gratuities to supplement their base compensation.

General Tipping Guidelines

  • Before your appointment, discreetly ask about the provider’s tipping policy if it concerns you.
  • Ultimately, tipping is optional and at your full discretion. Never feel pressured or obligated.
  • Base any gratuity on your satisfaction with the care, service, and results – not custom alone.
  • Polite inquiry can help you make an informed decision around tipping that you feel comfortable with.

What Is the Standard Tip Amount for Lip Fillers?

lip filler treatment

For lip filler procedures performed at medical spas, medspas, or aesthetician offices, the standard tip amount for lip fallers falls in the 15-20% range of the total service cost.  

So for a $600 lip filler treatment, a $90-120 tip would be considered generous yet in line with industry norms. While percentages serve as a helpful benchmark, the ideal tip amount ultimately depends on your satisfaction, budget, and the service received.

For licensed medical professionals, gratuities are usually declined. Still, a small tip may be accepted occasionally as a token of gratitude for exceptional service.

The specific provider administering the injections can impact expectations as well. Independent nurse injectors, physician assistants, or clinical aestheticians at cosmetic spas may rely on tips more than salaried plastic surgeons. 

Over lipstick touch-ups? Ethos Spa’s lip fillers are about to change the game for your pout. Book today for your dreamiest smile yet.

Dr. Hardik Soni

MD, Founder/Lead Physician

About Dr. Hardik Soni

Dr. Hardik Soni is the founder and Medical Director of Ethos Aesthetics + Wellness. His primary focus is on minimally invasive and non-invasive cosmetic procedures including botulinum injection (Botox and Dysport), dermal fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse), laser hair removal, chemical peels, and laser skin rejuvenation. Dr. Soni believes in a more conservative approach and his first goal is education. Clients are able to determine the ideal treatments after discussion with Dr. Soni regarding the expected outcomes, cost, as well as risks.

Read More